Scotland overpower Wales 38-8 in World Cup Pool B Clash

Scotland delivered a commanding performance in their opening match of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, defeating Wales 38–8 in a Pool B fixture that showcased their speed, cohesion, and finishing power.

With six tries spread across both halves, the Scots set the tone early with Francesca McGhie completing a hat-trick in the first 43 minutes.

The game got off to a sensational start for Scotland as winger McGhie touched down within the first 60 seconds, slicing through the Welsh defence before anyone could settle into the game. Although Wales responded in the 12th minute with a well-constructed try by co-captain Alex Callender, the parity didn’t last long.

McGhie struck again midway through the first half with her second try, re-establishing Scotland’s lead and energising their attack before Keira Bevan kicked a penalty goal for Wales making it 10-8. Soon after, Leia Brebner-Holden added another try around the half-hour mark and this time Helen Nelson kicked the conversion, extending the Scottish to a nine point lead by the end of the opening half.

In the second half, Scotland maintained their momentum. McGhie powered her way through for her third try in the 43rd minute and Nelson's conversion meant they increased their lead to 24-8.

Evie Gallagher powered through the Welsh line to score, keeping the scoreboard ticking in their favour. Emma Orr later added a sixth try, sealing a comprehensive win and underlining the depth of Scotland’s backline strength to ensure a 30 point victory to kick off their World Cup campaign.

Team line up:

Scotland: Chloe Rollie; Rhona Lloyd, Emma Orr, Lisa Thomson, Francesca McGhie; Helen Nelson, Leia Brebner-Holden; Leah Bartlett, Lana Skeldon,Elliann Clarke, Emma Wassell, Sarah Bonar, Rachel Malcolm (captain), Rachel McLachlan, Evie Gallagher

Reserves: Elis Martin, Molly Wright, Lisa Cockburn, Jade Konkel, Eva Donaldson, Alex Stewart, Caity Mattinson, Beth Blacklock.

Wales: Nel Metcalfe; Lisa Neumann, Hannah Dallavalle, Courtney Keight, Jasmine Joyce-Butchers; Lleucu George, Keira Bevan; Gwenllian Pyrs, Kelsey Jones, Donna Rose, Alaw Pyrs, Gwen Crabb, Kate Williams (co-captain), Bethan Lewis, Alex Callender (co-captain).

Reserves: Carys Phillips, Maisie Davies, Sisilia Tuipulotu, Abbie Fleming, Georgia Evans, Seren Lockwood, Kayleigh Powell, Carys Cox.